The Meaning and Mystery of Gemstones

Since ancient times, those who could afford prized gems — royalty, clergy, and others — owned them not just for their beauty, but for their healing properties and other extraordinary power, from increasing strength and vitality, to furthering their personal and political agendas.

There is no definitive proof that gemstones are magical, and cultures generally differ on what they are useful for — but here’s an overview of some of the most popular gems and the powers they are said to have.

Amethyst — Known as a gem of inner peace, strength and contentment, amethyst is said enhance one’s psychic and creative abilities. It is also used to support sobriety and help break other addictions. Today, amethyst is considered to be a symbol of calm and tranquility, and a stabilizing force for those struggling to overcome addictive behaviors. A gift of amethyst is a symbol of protection, said to strengthen the bonds of love and overcome difficulty.

Aquamarine — The ancient Romans believed that Neptune, the god of the sea, obtained aquamarines from the jewel boxes of the Sirens. Because of their bond with the sea, aquamarine is the gemstone of several sea goddesses, including Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love. Aquamarines are said to bring safety to sailors, who are known to wear aquamarine talismans engraved with the likeness of Neptune, as protection against dangers at sea.

Bloodstone — Said to be good for the heart, improving oxygen through the bloodstream and encouraging relaxation and reducing emotional stress.

Blue Lace Agate — Believed to aid in the healing of bone and skeletal maladies, especially the healing of bone fractures.

Citrine — Known as a “merchant” stone, citrine is believed to attract money and increase business, raise self-esteem and warm feelings of hope. In ancient times, citrine was worn as protection against bad skin, evil thoughts, snakebites and even the plague. A gift of citrine is a symbol of flexibility and quick learning.

Emerald — Emeralds are symbolic of springtime and rebirth, and so are used for fertility, healthy pregnancy and ease of childbirth.

Garnet — The stone of love and commitment, garnet is said to help balance energy in and around the body and promote feelings of love for oneself and others. Garnets are also believed to help cardiovascular problems by increasing heart rate and circulation. Some believed garnets could protect against injury and death, and soldiers and sailors have carried garnets to battle throughout the ages.

Green Jade — Said to be a stone of good luck, green jade helps promote peace within and in the world around us.

Hematite — A gem said to encourage inner peace and happiness and increase focus and confidence.

Honey Jade — Used since ancient times, honey jade is believed to help emotional balance and with communication to the spiritual worlds.

Jasper — A gem of protection and nurturing, jasper is said to cleanse auras and provide protection against negative energies. It also promotes a sense of brotherhood and “green” outlook on the world.

Malachite — The stone of transition, malachite is said to help balance and ground one’s energy and stay on the right path. Also used in the treatment of swollen joints, broken bones and torn muscles.

Moonstone — Called the “traveler’s stone,” moonstone is thought to be a gem of good fortune and protection when traveling. Moonstone was given its name by the Roman natural historian Pliny, who wrote that moonstone’s appearance was altered with the phases of the moon — a belief that holds true today.

Obsidian — Known as the “mirror stone” because it helps one look within and address personal issues that need to be dealt with. The stone is also said to promote forgiveness.

Onyx —Some believe onyx enhances their ability to make good decisions, encourages happiness, and attracts good fortune.

Opal — The Great Bard, Shakespeare, loved opals so much, he nicknamed them the “queen of the gems.” The ancient Romans called the opal “Cupid Paederos,” which translates to “a child beautiful as love.” Ancient Romans would grind up and eat opals because they believed they had healing properties and the power to ward off bad dreams.

Peridot — Said to provide a shield of protection to block out negativity and helps to promote inner happiness and the release of anger and jealousy.

Quartz — A stone of power, quartz is known to promote harmony and align energies within and around the body.

Ruby — In ancient times, rubies were thought to give its wearer good health, wisdom, wealth and success in love.

Sapphire — The ancient Greeks believed sapphires were a symbol of wisdom and purity. The ancient Persians believed the Earth was supported by a giant sapphire and its reflection made the sky blue.

Sardonyx — During the Renaissance, sardonyx was often worn by public speakers to make them more visible to the audience.

Topaz —– Topaz is known as the “stone of the gods” for its strength. Topaz was believed to ease itchy feet and cravings for sweets. The ancient Egyptians believed yellow topaz’s color came from the glow cast by the sun god, Ra. The ancient Greeks believed topaz could ease bad tempers, cure insanity and help insomnia. A gift of yellow topaz symbolizes friendship, strength, wisdom, and courage.

Turquoise — Turquoise is said to be useful in promoting creative expression and promoting open communication and friendship. Used in the treatment of lung, circulation and respiratory issues.